Bark in the Park week at Westwood Cross will host Britain’s Got Talent finalists, Lucy Heath and her dog Trip Hazard in a last minute change of plan.

Following the sad news that Pudsey, half of the world-famous doggy-dancing duo, Ashleigh and Pudsey, has died, Ashleigh will no longer be attending the event today (July 26) as had been originally planned.

Ashleigh with dogs Pudsey and Sully Photo Steve Ullathorne

Francesca Donovan, centre manager at Westwood Cross, said: “We were really saddened to hear of Pudsey’s passing and our sympathies go out to Ashleigh at what must be an incredibly difficult time. We are a nation of pet lovers and this week has been designed for our guests of all ages to enjoy a variety of activities including watching a talented dog such as Pudsey.

“So with this in mind we are pleased to announce that BGT finalist Trip Hazard will be coming to our shopping centre on Thursday to give us an amazing performance of dog agility and obedience plus of course the cute factor that he has in abundance.”

The week includes free rides on mechanical horses, free to use Play-Doh creation station, a pet themed market, pop up dog crèche and a dog show on Saturday (July 29).

Lucy and Trip Hazard will wow crowds with an agility performance on Thursday (July 27) and some lucky fans will be able to meet and greet the pair following their performance.

Dogs can enjoy the pet stop while you shop

For the first time, Westwood Cross is also trialling a dog crèche from now until July 30. Visitors who wish to bring their dogs, can now enjoy the whole centre whilst their pet is cared for by a member of The Muttley Crew Family, a local doggy day-care service.

Advance booking is required, call The Muttley Crew on 07753 208622.

Ms Donovan added: “We are still looking for local residents to enter their dogs into our Bark in the Park Dog Show. Categories range from ‘dog with the waggiest tail’ to ‘best rescue dog’ and we can’t wait to meet our visitor’s furry friends!”